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Best Travel Cribs for 2024 – Our Reviews of the Safest and Most Portable Models

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We recommend the 4moms Breeze Plus Portable Playard or Guava Lotus Travel Crib as the best travel cribs that are extremely high quality and cost-effective.

As a mom who loves traveling with my little one, a portable crib that’s easy to set up and take down is an absolute must-have. After testing out several popular travel cribs on the market, I’ve discovered the key features to look for and compiled my top picks to make your buying decision easier.

A travel crib allows baby to sleep comfortably and safely whether you’re visiting relatives, staying in a hotel, or camping in the great outdoors .

In this guide, I’ll go over what makes travel cribs so useful for families on the go and review the top-rated options based on my hands-on experience assembling, using, and traveling with them.

Product Comparison

Reviews of the top 10 travel cribs: testing the products.

Before diving into our recommendations, it’s essential to understand that I’ve personally put these travel cribs to the test.

I know how crucial it is to have a reliable and convenient travel crib. So, I’ve tested these products rigorously to ensure they meet the highest standards of comfort, safety, and functionality for both you and your baby.

Now, let’s delve into the world of travel cribs and find the one that perfectly suits your needs:

Best Overall Travel Crib

4moms breeze plus portable playard.

Weight: 28.46 Pounds

Size: 43 x 30 x 29 inches

Recommended Age: Newborn, Infant, Toddler

Maximum Weight Recommendation : 55 Pounds

A portable playard that’s easy to set up, durable and feature packed is a must-have for moms who travel frequently with toddlers. The 4moms Breeze Plus has been a total game-changer for our family. Its “one push open, one pull close” functionality makes it so simple to set up, even with my wiggly toddler in one arm. I love that it folds up into a compact carrying case, fitting easily in our car trunk alongside the rest of our travel gear.

We used the bassinet a ton during the newborn stage, especially for overnight trips to grandma’s house. Now that my daughter is a toddler, we appreciate the roomy playard space, which gives her plenty of room to play and move around. The flip changer has also come in handy for quick diaper changes on the go.

Compared to other playards like the Graco, this one is definitely pricier but worth it for the easy one-handed setup alone. I also like how sturdy it feels compared to the Chicco LullaGo bassinet, which seems quite flimsy. The Bugaboo Stardust is similarly easy to pop open, but it doesn’t have the flip changer or removable bassinet like the 4moms.

• One-handed setup
• Removable bassinet and flip changer
• Stable and roomy playard
• Carrying case included
• Quite expensive

Most Portable Travel Crib

Babybjorn travel crib light.

Weight: 13 Pounds

Size: 44 x 24 x 32 inches

Maximum Weight Recommendation: 33 Pounds

The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light has been an essential for overseas trips and visits to grandma’s cottage. At only 13 pounds, it’s one of the lightest and most portable options out there. I love how quick and easy it is to set up – just unfold the legs and you’re good to go in seconds. This comes in handy when I’m juggling a cranky toddler.

The mesh fabric sides provide great ventilation and give me peace of mind that I can easily check on my daughter while she’s sleeping. I do wish it came with a fitted sheet, as adding that extra piece can be annoying when I’m trying to set up quickly. The sleeping space is adequate but can feel a bit snug if my daughter moves around a lot. And it’s not ideal for nursing a newborn to sleep as there’s no side panel that opens.

Compared to the Guava Lotus, this one packs up smaller and weighs less, making it better for airplane travel. But the Lotus offers more space for a toddler to play while awake. I prefer the BabyBjorn’s airy mesh sides over the solid panels of the Maxi-Cosi Swift when it comes to breathability.

• Very lightweight and portable design
• Easy 15-second setup
• Mesh sides for visibility
• No fitted sheet included
• Sleeping space can feel small
• Not ideal for nursing

Easiest To Set Up Travel Crib

Bugaboo stardust playard.

Weight: 17 Pounds

Size: 25 x 38.8 x 33.5 inches

Recommended Age: Newborn, Infant

Bugaboo’s innovative Stardust Playard has been a lifesaver for impromptu toddler sleepovers at grandma’s apartment or sleepaway weekends at our family cabin. True to its promise, it pops open with just a one-second unfold . The adjustable height mattress is great for my aging back since I don’t have to bend down as far to lay my daughter down.

I like that it folds up with the mattress inside to become ultra compact. This is perfect for tossing in the trunk for weekend road trips where space is limited. The mattress and fitted sheet it comes with feel nicer quality than my friend’s Graco Pack’ N Play mattress. The fabric is soft but still durable enough to withstand my rambunctious toddler.

My only gripe is that setup is a bit trickier with just one hand since you have to unclip the sides before popping it open. The Chicco LullaGo sets up quicker when I’m holding my wiggly toddler. And it doesn’t have the naptime and nighttime versatility of the 4moms with its removable bassinet and flip changer. But for a basic and portable playard, it checks all our boxes.

• Ultra quick one-second setup
• Folds with mattress inside for compact storage
• Higher quality mattress and sheet
• Adjustable mattress height
• Slightly tricky one-handed setup
• Lacks extra features like changer and removable bassinet

Best Budget Travel Crib

Graco pack ‘n play on the go playard.

Weight: 21.4 Pounds

Size: 39.5 x 28.25 x 29 inches

Recommended Age: Infant

Maximum Weight Recommendation: 30 Pounds

My friend is using the Graco Pack ‘n Play On The Go playard , which has been a wallet-friendly lifesaver for their family. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of pricier models like the 4moms, it gets the job done for quick weekend getaways and overnight trips to grandma’s house.

She loves that the bassinet folds with the playard, making setup even easier when her toddler is eager to be let out of her carseat. The included toy bar has also been a great way to keep the little one entertained while she is packing up her things. Her husband appreciates how light and compact it folds up with the carrying bag.

That said, the Graco’s mattress is thin and flimsy compared to the premium mattress on the Newton Travel Crib. And the fabric feels cheaper than my BabyBjorn Travel Crib. I do wish the Graco had mesh sides for better visibility and fold up smaller like the Guava Lotus. But for parents looking for an affordable, no-frills playard for travel, the Graco does the trick!

• Budget-friendly price
• Folds with bassinet attached
• Carrying bag and toy bar included
• Lightweight
• Mattress is thin and flimsy
• Cheaper fabric
• No mesh sides
• Bulkier fold

Best Lightweight Travel Crib

Chicco lullago anywhere portable bassinet.

Weight: 12 Pounds

Size: 30 x 18 x 28 inches

Recommended Age: Newborn

Maximum Weight Recommendation: 20 Pounds

During my baby’s newborn days, the Chicco LullaGo Anywhere bassinet was a must for overnight trips to grandma’s and weekend getaways. At only 12 pounds, it’s one of the lightest bassinets out there, making it easy for my husband or I to carry while juggling all our other newborn gear. The included carrying bag was great for tossing in the trunk alongside our luggage.

Set up takes mere seconds with the snap-on legs. I like that the mattress has a firm, flat surface as recommended for safe newborn sleep. The mattress quality feels much better than the super thin, flimsy bassinet insert that came with my friend’s Graco Pack ‘n Play.

However, the sleeping space is quite small and wasn’t practical once my baby became more active. And it doesn’t offer the versatile playard space of the 4moms Breeze.

Overall, the Chicco LullaGo is an excellent choice for travel with a newborn. But for longer-term versatility, I’d go with the 4moms Breeze Plus with both bassinet and playard options.

• Extremely portable at 12 lbs
• Quick snap-on leg setup
• High-quality firm mattress
• Carrying bag included
• Sleeping space is small
• Not practical once baby is bigger
• No playard option

Best Travel Crib for Twins

Baby trend lil’ snooze deluxe iii for twins.

Weight: 40.95 Pounds

Size: 35.5 x 28 x 41.5 inches

My cousin, who is a super mom of twins, absolutely loves the Baby Trend Lil’ Snooze Deluxe for all their fun family outings. The separate rocker bassinets have been perfect for keeping her twins happy in the car and on planes. She likes that each has its own toys, music, and vibration—it really helps distract them when their patience wears thin.

The large playard space has plenty of room for growing twins to play and nap comfortably. And they love listening to the nature sounds before bedtime. The deluxe organizer is great for storing diapers, wipes, and extra clothes on the go.

Compared to the Joovy Room2, I wish the sleeping space was bigger, as I could see her twins starting to feel cramped. It’s also very heavy and bulkier to fold than the Guava Lotus. Still, for parents of twins, the dual features make travel and sleepovers much smoother. I don’t know what they would do without it!

• Dual rocker bassinets with music, toys, and vibration
• Ample playard space for twins
• Convenient organizer for travel
• Portable for car trips
• Heavy and bulky
• Sleeping space could be bigger

Best Travel Crib for Airplane

Guava lotus travel crib.

Weight: 15 Pounds

Size: 45.5 x 31.5 x 25.5 inches

Maximum Weight Recommendation: No limit (mattress supported by floor)

If you are a traveler like me, you should know that the Guava Lotus Travel Crib has been my trusty companion on cross-country plane trips, busy family vacations, and weekends at the in-laws’ house. The genius 3D folding design makes it compact enough to fit in an overhead bin as a carry-on item. Setup and takedown is so simple, I can do it easily with one hand while holding my squirmy toddler in the other arm.

I absolutely love the side door panel—it’s been a game changer for calming my daughter to sleep while traveling and maintaining bonding through the night. The thick mattress is also comfier than any other travel crib mattress we’ve tried. The quality feels closer to a real crib mattress than the thinner, flimsier ones often included in cheaper playards.

The Newton does offer a bit more interior space for playtime. And the Bugaboo Stardust sets up quicker in one easy motion. But for families focused on air travel and portability, the well-designed Lotus is truly in a league of its own. I wouldn’t consider traveling without it.

• Fits airplane overhead bins
• One-handed setup in seconds
• Side door for easy access
• Thick, quality mattress
• Interior space smaller than Newton
• Slightly slower setup than Bugaboo

Best Travel Crib for Car Travel

Maxi-cosi swift lightweight portable playard.

Weight: 18 Pounds

Size: 41 x 33 x 31 inches

Maximum Weight Recommendation: 35 Pounds

I love the stylish, compact design of the Maxi-Cosi Swift for overnight trips and visits to grandma’s house. The two-stage mattress is a really unique feature—I used it on the higher bassinet setting for my newborn, and now my toddler has plenty of room with it unzipped to the larger playard size.

The one-step fold is awesome when I’m packing up a wiggly toddler in a hurry. It folds up so smooth and compact. I also appreciate that it comes with a carrying case, unlike some competitors like the BabyBjorn Travel Crib. The fabric and mesh sides seem very breathable and airy.

My main gripe is that the mattress is quite thin and flimsy—almost like a yoga mat! I wish it had the super plush mattress that comes with the Newton. And setup takes a tad longer than the ultra-quick Bugaboo Stardust. While the Maxi-Cosi Swift is slightly heavier than some competing options, it has proven to be an extremely sturdy, convenient, and stylish playard for car travel with our family.

• Two-stage adjustable mattress
• Smooth one-step fold
• Stylish, compact design fits in the trunk of car
• Mattress is very thin
• Slightly slower setup

Most Comfortable Travel Crib

Newton baby travel crib and play yard.

Size: 51 x 34.5 x 28.5 inches

This Newton Baby Travel Crib has been an absolute dream for our cross-country road trips and busy family vacations thanks to its massive interior space. With nearly 10 square feet of play area, my tall toddler has plenty of room to play and move around even after being confined in her car seat.

I’m also obsessed with the innovative Wovenaire mesh mattress—not only is it perfectly breathable, but you can wash the whole thing! This gives me peace of mind, knowing it’s truly clean for my little one. I also love that I can easily spot clean the mattress pad after accidents or spit up. The thick cushioning provides ample comfort and support.

My husband did struggle a bit with setup compared to the foolproof Bugaboo Stardust. And it lacks the versatile bassinet and changing station features of the 4moms Breeze. But for families focused on maximizing play space for an active toddler, the Newton is hands-down the winner. My daughter would live in it full time if she could!

• Huge 10 sq ft play space
• Innovative breathable + washable mattress
• Thick cushioned mattress pad
• Easily spot cleaned
• Slightly trickier setup
• Lacks bassinet and changer

Best Travel Crib for Tall Babies

Joovy room2 large portable playpen.

Weight: 29.6 Pounds

Size: 39.75 x 39.75 x 31 inches

Most moms have struggled to find a playpen that provides enough space for their toddler to stretch out comfortably—until discovering the Joovy Room2 . With nearly 10 square feet of space, it’s roomier than any other playpen we’ve tried. This crib is designed in a way that prevents tall toddlers from climbing out of it.

I love that the mesh windows provide a 360-degree view so I can easily keep an eye on my busy bee while getting things done around the house. The padded mattress and fitted sheet seem very durable yet comfy enough for naps and overnight sleep. And the travel bag makes it easy to stash in my trunk for weekends at grandma’s.

Compared to the Guava Lotus, I do wish it had a side door for easy access when my toddler is sleeping. It’s also quite heavy and bulky when folded. But its expansive interior can’t be beaten for tall toddlers who need extra room to play and rest comfortably. If space is your top priority, the Joovy Room2 is the way to go.

• Nearly 10 sq ft of space
• 360-degree visibility
• Durable yet padded mattress
• No side door access
• Heavy and bulky when folded

Why Use a Travel Crib?

Portability.

The number one reason to use a travel crib is portability. Standard cribs are cumbersome to move from room to room, let alone take on a plane or in a car.

Travel cribs are designed to fold up into a compact shape with a carrying bag for easy transport. This allows the baby to sleep in a familiar environment no matter where your travels take you.

Safety is my top concern when it comes to my baby’s sleep space. Travel cribs offer secure, enclosed sides to prevent falls and keep the baby from climbing out.

Many also have mesh panels for maximum breathability. The best travel cribs meet current safety standards and feature sturdy but collapsible frames.

Convenience

Between naps, diaper changes, and feedings, it’s so convenient to have a portable sleep space for a baby wherever I need it. Travel cribs set up in minutes in any room or outdoor area.

Some even have features like mobiles, sound machines, and bassinets to help baby sleep soundly. The ability to provide consistent sleep for my little one while we’re on the go makes travel cribs well worth it.

Types of Travel Cribs

Not all travel cribs are created equal. Understanding the different types available can help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

1. Portable Playard: Versatility Meets Comfort

• Spacious for active babies.
• Doubles as a playpen during the day.
• Offers a secure sleeping environment.
• Can be heavier and bulkier.

These traditional rectangular playard-style cribs are perfect for babies who love their space. It provides ample room for play and sleep, making it a versatile choice for various situations.

2. Bassinet Travel Crib: Perfect for Newborns

• Cozy and secure for newborns.
• Often includes features like a changing table.
• Compact and lightweight.
• Suitable for a limited age range, usually up to 3-4 months old.

Bassinet travel cribs cater to the needs of newborns and infants. They offer a snug sleeping environment and often come with convenient extras like changing tables.

3. Pop-Up Travel Crib: Lightweight and Convenient

• Incredibly lightweight.
• Lightweight metal frames simply pop open.
• Ideal for short trips.
• Limited space for active babies.
• Less durable than other options.

Pop-up travel cribs are designed for parents on the move. They are a breeze to set up and are ideal for quick getaways or when you need a crib in a pinch.

Key Features to Look for in a Travel Crib

Based on using a wide range of travel cribs with my daughter, here are the key features I recommend looking for:

Weight and Foldability

Since you’ll be moving the crib often, seek out lighter weight models (under 20 lbs) that fold into a compact shape. Look for a crib with a carrying case that makes transporting through airports and in cars manageable.

Sturdy yet Collapsible Frame

You want something that sets up and folds down easily but has a frame that doesn’t shake or collapse while in use. Metal tubing that clicks securely into place is ideal for stability.

Mesh Sides for Ventilation

Mesh sides allow maximum airflow so baby stays comfortable in warm climates or overly air-conditioned rooms. They also give parents better visibility.

Mattress Quality and Fit

A padded mattress with a snug fit is key for safety and your baby’s comfort. Waterproof and machine-washable mattress covers are a major plus for inevitable messes and blowouts on the go.

Easy Assembly and Disassembly

When traveling with a baby, easy assembly in under 5 minutes is a must. Some cribs even allow you to unfold in mere seconds! The crib should fold back up compactly with minimal effort. Look for simple push button or latch mechanisms.

Extra Tips for Using a Travel Crib

• Always Secure the Mattress Properly To prevent dangerous gaps, make sure the mattress is properly secured in place every time you set up. Follow the manufacturer's instructions closely.
• Use the Carry Bag for Transportation and Storage When not in use, keep the travel crib in its carrying case to prevent damage. This will make it much easier to transport as well.
• Keep It Clean Wipe down the crib and wash all removable parts like the mattress cover regularly. Cleanliness is especially important when using it in hotels or on multiple trips.

Before You Buy – My Closing Guidance

I hope this buying guide covers all the key factors to consider when selecting the best travel crib for your family’s needs.

My top picks offer great portability, safety, convenience, and features to make travel with your little one stress-free.

Just remember a quality travel crib can open up so many more travel opportunities while providing consistent sleep for the baby.

Let me know if you have any other questions – happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is best for starting to use a travel crib.

Most travel cribs are suitable starting at birth as long as your doctor approves. However, some parents prefer bigger cribs for newborns and start travel crib use around 3-6 months when baby is more mobile.

Are travel cribs safe for overnight sleep?

Yes, as long as you always follow the safety guidelines like securing the mattress properly. Travel cribs that meet current safety standards are designed for both daytime napping and overnight sleep.

Can I also use a travel crib at home?

Absolutely! Many parents use travel cribs as their main crib to move around the house. They work great as a lightweight option you can move from room to room based on your needs.

Are travel cribs okay for airline travel?

Most airlines allow travel cribs as long as they meet carry-on size requirements . Some may even let you gate check the crib for free. Be sure to contact your airline to understand their specific policies.

How long can a child use a travel crib?

Many travel cribs have weight limits of 30-50 pounds and are advertised to use up to 3-4 years old. However, kids develop at different rates, so transition your child once he/she is climbing out or reaches the manufacturer guidelines.

Do I need a special mattress for a travel crib?

Travel cribs come with a mattress specifically designed to fit that model. You should use the manufacturer’s mattress for a secure fit. Using a different mattress could create dangerous gaps in the crib.

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• Travel Products
• Family Travel

The 8 Best Travel Cribs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 19 travel cribs to find which one is the best for portability and safety.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Tips for Buying

You May Also Need

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Whether you have a family trip coming up , need something for the occasional overnight visit , or are shopping for a baby registry , a good travel crib is essential. Sometimes called playards, these foldable contraptions offer a secure place for your child to sleep or play when you're on the go.

According to neonatologist Michael H. Goodstein, MD, FAAP, they're "a safe alternative to a crib, as long as the product is consistent with the mandatory guidelines established by the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission)." But, beyond safety considerations, not all portable cribs are created equal.

Travel cribs vary by size, weight, features, and functionality. We tested 19 models to narrow it down to the most user-friendly, portable, durable, and easy-to-clean options.

Best Overall

Maxi-cosi swift play yard.

With an adjustable mattress and easy folding mechanism, this sturdy crib grows with your child and can be taken on any excursion.

It's not the lightest option we tested.

Clocking nearly perfect scores in all our tests, our top choice is the Maxi-Cosi Swift Play Yard. Even after six months of use, we loved how lightweight this portable crib is, making it super easy to set up and take down. Though the leg-folding mechanism is a little different than most models, we assembled it in less than three minutes and packed it back up in under two. It also has all the comfort and safety features we'd want in this type of product. The mattress lays flat on its own, you don't need to hook Velcro straps to keep it down, which is great for saving set-up time. The supportive yet bouncy design barely budged when we dropped a 25-pound sandbag on top, and the frame held strong too.

We're also big fans of the bassinet feature. For newborns and infants, you can detach the mattress from the bottom and raise it up for easier access to your baby. Then, when your child grows, lower it back down to prevent them from climbing out.

At 18 pounds, this travel crib is on the heavier side. However, it seems durable and long-lasting. The high-quality materials appear stain-resistant. All things considered, we think the price is right on point.

The Details: 41.5 x 33.5 x 31 inches (overall) | 33 x 11 x 12 inches (packed) | 18 pounds | 35-pound weight limit

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Budget

Munchkin travel bassinet.

This lightweight, compact sleeper is incredibly easy to set up and pack up, a perfect option for traveling with newborns.

It doesn't come with a carry bag, and the weight capacity is 15 pounds.

On a budget? Check out the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This on-the-go sleeper can be set up in one minute and packs back up in less than 30 seconds. At just three pounds, we were also impressed with the lightweight design. When it folds down, it's super small and doesn't take up a lot of space even though it doesn't come with a carry bag. The lightweight, compact design is undoubtedly convenient, but bear in mind the capacity is 15 pounds. In other words, you'll need something bigger once your child is about 6 months old.

The Details: 30 x 21 x 12 inches (overall) | 3 pounds | 15-pound weight limit

Best Splurge

Uppababy remi portable playard.

This durable, splurge-worthy crib is super easy to assemble and packs into a conveniently compact bundle.

It's somewhat heavy (but super sturdy), and the carry bag is sold separately.

If you're open to splurging on a high-quality travel crib, UppaBaby won't disappoint. It's incredibly easy to set up, you just pull it out of the box and snap it into place. When folding it back up, the frame wraps into the mattress to create a conveniently compact bundle. After six months of use, we found it to be a great option to even leave up as an extra home crib.

We also appreciate the safety features, including padded edges, hidden zippers, and an elevated bassinet attachment. It's also pretty light and portable. So, while the price is steep (and you'll have to buy the carry bag separately), in the end, we think it's worth the investment for its durability and overall features.

The Details: 40.5 x 28.5 x 26 inches (overall) | 28.5 x 11 x 10 inches (packed) | 22.5 pounds | 20-pound weight limit

Best Compact

Kidco peapod plus.

The ultra-lightweight, compact design is easy to take on the go and folds up into its carry bag in seconds.

It's not recommended for children under 6 months and the bottom of the crib is made of fabric that can be slippery.

For something more compact, consider the KidCo PeaPod Plus. We were able to set up this sleeper and fold it back down in almost no time. The ultra-lightweight design folds effortlessly into its included bag, and the carry straps make it easy to take on the go.

The tent-like design can be used indoors or for outdoor naps in your backyard, on the beach, or on family camping trips . While it's not the most structured, it holds its shape enough to provide a safe sleeping spot for a small child. Despite the compact size, bear in mind it's designed for kiddos between 6 months and 5 years.

The Details: 46 x 34 x 22 inches (overall) | 19 x 19 x 3.5 inches (packed) | 3.5 pounds | 100-pound weight limit

Best Lightweight

Chicco lullago anywhere portable bassinet.

This remarkably lightweight-yet-sturdy bassinet is easy to set up, move from room to room, and bring on the go.

The maximum weight is 20 pounds, and it doesn't come with a carrying case.

We were able to assemble and fold up the Chicco LullaGo in under a minute. This travel bassinet is remarkably lightweight yet still sturdy. After six months of use, it's holding up well and is a great option with a minimalist design. Though we wish it came with a carrying case, it's easy to move from room to room or bring on the go. We also like that all the covers are conveniently machine-washable.

Dr. Goodstein warns against using this product past the newborn stage, as the elevated platform isn't designed for larger infants. "When the babies are too old, they can fall out of it," he says. "It's just not safe."

The Details: 30 x 28 x 18 inches (overall) | 28 x 18.5 x 5.5 inches (packed) | 12 pounds | 20-pound weight limit

Best Playard

Chicco alfa lite lightweight travel playard.

This playard boasts easy setup, a sturdy design, and various safety features to keep your kiddo secure during naps or playtime.

It doesn't fold down as small as other options we tested.

The Chicco Alfa Lite can be assembled in three minutes and folded back up in less than 60 seconds. Thanks to the helpful 'push' buttons and intuitive design, you don't even need to consult the instructions for set-up and take down. Though the legs fold out with ease, the frame also feels sturdy, like it'll hold up well over time.

Designed for on-the-go sleeping or safe, secure playing, this playard has lockable side zippers and a mattress that buckles to the base. You can also unzip the side to let your child climb in and out during playtime. The mattress is a little flimsy, but other than that, we have no complaints. After six months of use, we love that this is even a good option to set up during playdates.

The Details: 43 x 29 x 25 inches (overall) | 21 x 9.5 x 9.5 inches (packed) | 13 pounds | 30-pound weight limit

Best for Car Travel

Baby joy travel crib 2-in-1 playpen.

This lightweight, ultra-portable crib is a breeze to set up and can easily fit in a car trunk for family road trips.

The handles are somewhat short, making it hard to avoid dragging it.

The Baby Joy Travel Crib takes a mere three minutes to set up and folds up in a flash. It folds and unfolds easily, kind of like a camp chair. Once you know where the lock button is, the frame is incredibly simple to put together. After six months of regular use, we love that this can be used inside for naps and even outside for contained playtime.

The entire thing seems high-quality, which is impressive, considering the very reasonable price tag. Weighing only 11 pounds, it's one of the lightest options we tried. While we appreciate the included case, the short handles make it hard to avoid dragging it on the ground when carrying it — for shorter folks, at least. This portable crib folds up pretty compactly but is still probably too tall for an overhead bin, which is why we recommend it for family road trips .

The Details: 45.5 x 31 x 27 inches (overall) | 23.5 x 20.5 x 7 inches (packed) | 11 pounds | 33-pound weight limit

Best Stability

4moms breeze go playard.

Set-up is straight forward and quick and the crib's material is durable and stable.

It's on the heavier side.

With less than four minutes to set up and only two minutes to take down, this is one of the easiest travel cribs to use. Once unfolded, you simply drop in the mattress and attach it to the frame using velcro straps to keep it stable and secure. The first time we assembled this crib, we didn't even need to read the manual because it was such an intuitive process.

In addition to its ease of use, this is one of the most sturdy and high-quality of all the travel cribs we tested. The material doesn't shift around at all and the slight suspension and shocks improve safety for any kiddo. We also love that it comes with its own travel case that helps keep the crib compact and organized while on the go. For anyone looking for an entry level travel crib that's simple and sturdy, this is a high-quality and reliable option.

The Details: 43 x 30 x 29 inches (overall) | 23.2 pounds | 30-pound weight limit

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Travel + Leisure editors selected 19 travel cribs to try firsthand. We started by timing how long it took to assemble them based on the brand's instructions, noting any hiccups they ran into along the way. After assessing the features and materials, we lifted them up and moved them around the room to see how light and portable they were once assembled.

To evaluate the sturdiness, we shook the frames and dropped a sandbag into the center to see how well they could support a small child standing up or jumping around. Finally, we timed how long it took to fold down the cribs and put them in their carrying cases, noting how heavy they were when packed up. Each model was scored for ease of setup, portability, durability, ease of cleaning, quality, and value, and those with the highest average ratings were selected for this roundup.

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Other Travel Cribs We Liked

KidCo Peapod Portable Travel Bed : This tent-style sleeper quickly pops open, and the padded base is a cinch to snap on. While the fabric is somewhat thin, it's super lightweight and easy to carry, too. However, in the end, we just liked the other KidCo model better.

Baby Delight Snuggle Nest Harmony Portable Infant Lounger : We liked the small, lightweight design of this product. But since it's technically a lounger rather than a crib, it's really designed to be a safe place to set your infant down — not necessarily a place to sleep. When in doubt, check with your pediatrician before using it.

Pamo Babe Deluxe Portable Nursery Center : While this crib was incredibly easy to set up, we thought it lacked durability as it had a tendency to collapse as it grew closer to the weight limit.

Tips for Buying a Travel Crib

Put safety first.

Whether for travel or nightly sleep, safety should be a top priority when buying a crib. Per the CPSC's current guidelines , the mattress should be relatively firm to prevent rolling. And you shouldn't add extra padding or bedding until your child is at least 12 months old, as the materials can pose a suffocation risk.

"Get a travel crib that is current from a major brand," says Dr. Goodstein, "and use the mattress that's included." He adds that, aside from a sleep sack, you really don't need anything other than a mattress and a tight-fitting crib sheet.

Know the important features 

Travel cribs come with various features — some for safety and others for comfort or convenience. This may include user-friendly foldability, a carrying case, a firm mattress, padded edges, concealed zippers, or breathable mesh sides.

"Some have a bassinet feature, which is convenient for new mothers (not bending over) and small/younger newborns," says Dr. Goodstein. "With or without, they should be used properly, following the weight, age, and developmental limitations set within the product instructions and warnings."

Consider the type of trip you're taking

When browsing options, consider the type of trip you're taking and where you plan on using the crib. If you're traveling by plane , some (but not all) airlines allow you to check portable cribs for free (along with travel strollers and car seats). But if you're not checking baggage, make sure it's small enough to pass as a carry-on.

Some small travel cribs can be folded up super compactly and even tucked inside a suitcase. But larger options that come with their own carry bags will usually need to be toted around separately. If you just need something for the occasional overnight, you have more flexibility in terms of size.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main difference between a travel crib and a regular crib is that the former is typically foldable and relatively lightweight. But as long as it has a proper mattress and sides that prevent rolling off, you can use a travel crib as a regular crib.

"The newer ones, for the most part, should be fine," says Dr. Goodstein. "If you're going to use a sheet in there, make sure it's a fitted sheet for that specific type of crib."

Travel crib mattresses are roughly 38 x 24 inches, which is the size of a mini crib mattress. Getting a fitted sheet in the proper size is crucial, as loose fabric can be dangerous for sleeping babies. "These little ones don't have good head [or hand] control — they can't brush something off of their face," explains Dr. Goodstein. "Something as light as a sheet can cause suffocation."

Some travel cribs fit into overhead compartments, but it varies by model. While it's different for each airline, the maximum dimensions for carry-ons is usually 22 x 14 x 9 inches, so be sure to measure the packed-up size before your trip.

While most airlines will check strollers and carseats for free, travel cribs are considered luggage and will be charged as such. Be sure to check with your specific airline in advance to determine what baby gear is complimentary.

Traveling with a toddler takes more than a portable travel crib. These products will help your next adventure with your little one go smoothly, whether you're taking a roadtrip or flying internationally.

Veer Cruiser Stroller Wagon : Packed with features typical of strollers, this compact beach wagon has two seats, each of which can haul up to 55 pounds.

Joolz AER+ Baby Stroller : If you're looking for an extremely compact stroller that can be easily stored at home or on flights, look no further than the Joolz AER+ Baby Stroller. It looks great, rolls smoothly, and has plenty of padding for your little one.

Graco Contender Slim Convertible Car Seat : This ultra-lightweight car seat is also very slim and portable, making it a great option for any compact or larger vehicles you might rent for your next adventure.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Theresa Holland is a toddler mom and seasoned commerce writer specializing in travel, baby gear, and furniture. For this story, she compiled our in-house testing insights and combed through product specs to create a comprehensive roundup of today's best travel cribs. She is personally familiar with the offerings from UppaBaby, Munchkin, and Chicco.

In creating our list of best travel cribs, we also spoke to an expert in the care of newborns, neonatologist Michael H. Goodstein , MD, FAAP.

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